Peroxisomal transport systems: roles in signaling and metabolism

Peroxisomes perform a range of different functions, including β-oxidation of fatty acids and synthesis and degradation of bioactive molecules. A notable feature of peroxisomes is their role in metabolic pathways which are shared between several subcellular compartments, including mitochondria, chloroplasts and cytosol. Transport across the peroxisomal membrane is therefore central to the co-ordination of metabolism. Although transport processes are required for import of substrates and cofactors, export of intermediates and products and the operation of redox shuttles, relatively few peroxisomal transporters have been identified to date. This chapter reviews the current evidence for and against different peroxisomal transport processes.